I was also diagnosed in 2012 and has surgery in 2013. I continue on meds and have many health issues still. I haven’t had a full recovery and dramatic weight loss or anything. I’m now starting to regret surgery as it has left me very limited in what I can do. I was far more mobile before. I miss my life. I’ve lost everything since having surgery!

I, too, was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor and subsequently had surgery to remove it. I still struggle day to day with many issues…word finding, comprehension, emotions. I also struggle with finding Cushings disease support groups in our area.

A simple test that measures free cortisol levels in saliva at midnight — called a midnight salivary cortisol test — showed good diagnostic performance for Cushing’s syndrome among a Chinese population, according to a recent study. The test was better than the standard urine free cortisol levels and may be an alternative for people with end-stage kidney disea […]

Your case is every similar to mine. I wasn’t a dancer but I did play multiple sports in high school and played college basketball. I saw doctor Yuen at Swedish as well and many more doctors as well. I have never got my case or my symptoms solved. Over 4 years of doctors and testing. They found I had a pituitary tumor and mildly high cortisol in my 24 hour Ur […]

Thanks for sharing your story. In February it will be 6 years since I’ve had my pituitary surgery. My health is constantly up and down as well. I was just wondering if you’re treated for depression or anxiety at all? Also, have you found any exercises or physical therapy to be helpful?

Jill wrote: 'In December 2004 my dad who had addison's for over 30 years had a triple bypass surgery 6 days before Christmas. The surgery was an amazine success and it was predicted he would be home before Christmas. Day 2 following surgery the hospital neglected to give him his steriods for his Addison's for 22 hours, which they were complete […]

A man with Cushing’s disease — caused by an adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary adenoma — who later developed metastases in the central nervous system without Cushing’s recurrence, was successfully treated over eight years with radiation and chemotherapy, according to a case report.

As part of your overall Cushing’s syndrome treatment plan, there are some lifestyle tips you can incorporate to help you live well with Cushing’s syndrome.

Below are 4 lifestyle tips you can integrate into your recovery plan from Cushing’s syndrome. Have a conversation with your doctor before making any major changes, such as starting to exercise regularly.

Eat smart. Make sure you’re eating nutritious foods. Of course, you should focus on eating fruits and vegetables, which are high in anti-oxidants, but also eat whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. These foods fuel your body by giving you healthy doses of energy.

Also, be sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. These nutrients help strengthen bones (important because bone loss is common with people who have Cushing’s syndrome). If you don’t get enough of these in your diet, talk to your doctor about taking calcium and vitamin D supplements.

A registered dietitian (RD) can help you create a balanced meal plan—the key word here is “balanced.” Yes, you can still eat the foods you love (in moderation), but it’s important to eat foods that boost your health. An RD can also help you lose extra weight you gained from Cushing’s syndrome.

Exercise gently. Exercise plays a significant role in any healthy lifestyle, but it’s important for you not to rush into it. Even if you think you’re feeling better, your body still needs time to heal.

Start off slowly-you may want to try low—impact exercise, such as water aerobics, tai chi, or yoga. These exercises gently re-build your muscles and joints. From there, you can work up to a more moderate-paced exercise routine. You can also work with a personal trainer who can customize a workout plan for you.

Exercising should be comfortable. If you experience pain or any new symptoms when exercising, talk to your doctor right away.

Keep tabs on your mental health. Your mental health can take a toll when you have Cushing’s syndrome—depression is common. If you feel blue or you don’t feel like doing the things you used to and you’re not sure why, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor—he or she can recommend a psychologist who can help you cope with your feelings throughout your recovery.

You may also want to keep a journal to record how you feel on a day-to-day basis.

Give yourself a break. Don’t be hard on yourself as your body recovers from Cushing’s syndrome. It’s important to get plenty of rest, relaxation, and sleep. Treat yourself to a gentle massage, warm bubble bath, or listen to soothing music. Now’s not the time to push yourself—respect your body and its limits.

Incorporating these lifestyle tips into your routine can not only help you live well, but they can help you thrive with Cushing’s syndrome.